Abstract: The flushing flow distributor has a first channel (21) which is to be connected to a discharge (45) of the flushing cistern (4), and a second and a third channel (24, 25, 69). The second channel (24) and the third channel (25) are in each case to be connected to a toilet bowl (10). The first channel (21) has a nozzle (17, 18, 19, 55, 62) which outputs the water to the two other channels (24, 25, 69). The nozzle (17, 18, 19, 55, 62) is preferably designed as a free jet nozzle. The flushing flow distributor is preferably designed as a pipe interrupter. It is preferably used on a pressurized flushing cistern (4) and permits flushing with less flushing water while at the same time requiring less space and with a flushing action which is at least ample.

Abstract: An apparatus or support having a frame that can be disposed in an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The frame includes a first end portion, a second end portion, a first side portion, a second side portion, and several connectors. Each of the connectors are disposable at a first position when the frame is in its expanded configuration and are disposable at a second position when the frame is in its collapsed configuration.

Abstract: A medical procedural patient platform includes a peripheral edge that can receive a medical patient platform extension. The medical procedural patient platform peripheral edge includes a generally male connecting portion that can receive a female connecting portion located on the medical patient platform extension. The connection is a slip fit and the two components do not snap together. A bracket is included on the medical patient platform extension that allows the medical patient platform extension to rotate at discrete intervals.

Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system which utilizes a flexible drive arm for withstanding bending loads applied to a wiper. The drive arm may be made of a pull-molded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity and a relatively high elongation factor. The flexible arm twists in the presence a bending load and undergoes rapidly progressing elastic buckling when the bending load exceeds a predetermined amount.

Abstract: A robot cleaner includes a suction device installed within a cleaner body, that sucks dirt on a floor; a driver that moves the cleaner body; a detector mounted at the cleaner body, that detects a height between a bottom of the cleaner body and the floor; and a controller that controls the suction device in response to signal from the detector to adjust a suction force of the suction device in accordance with the height between the bottom of the cleaner body and the floor.

Abstract: The ergonomic multi-functional cleaning machine includes a fresh liquid tank, a waste recovery tank positioned atop the fresh liquid tank, and a vacuum source for enabling a soil-containing fluid to be vacuumed into the waste recovery tank. The machine further includes: (1) a fresh liquid pump positioned above the fresh liquid tank, with the fresh liquid pump enabling a liquid or solution to be pumped from the fresh liquid tank; and/or (2) a spigot operatively connected to the fresh liquid tank, whereby a user may regulate the flow of a liquid or solution from the fresh liquid tank. Also, the machine may include an inline wetting apparatus, thereby providing for vacuuming of dry dirt, dust, and other soils.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for minimizing the accumulation of soil and debris within a vacuum system of a surface maintenance machine is disclosed. A secondary fluid, such as pressurized cleaning solution, is sprayed into the vacuum system in order to reduce soil and debris accumulation within the vacuum system without applying additional fluid to a floor surface. In one embodiment of the invention, pressurized fluid is introduced directly into the vacuum extractor tool of a surface cleaning machine in order to dislodge accumulated debris on surfaces therein. A method of minimizing the accumulation of soil and debris within the vacuum system is also disclosed. The invention is applicable to a variety of portable and vehicle-based floor cleaning machines.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is provided including a housing, a nozzle inlet, a suction generator carried on the housing and a dirt vessel carried on the housing. The dirt vessel includes a sidewall and an open end. A plunger is received in the dirt vessel. The plunger is selectively displaceable between a first position spaced along the sidewall away from the open end and a second position spaced along the sidewall adjacent the open end.

Abstract: A suction port assembly of a vacuum cleaner is connected with a cleaner body by an extended flow passage and draws in air and dust from a surface being cleaned when the cleaner is in operation. The suction port assembly includes a suction head having a suction hole formed at a bottom surface opposite to the surface being cleaned. A first connection member extends from one side of the suction head. A second connection member rotatably connects at one end to an exit end of the first connection member and rotates about a first axis to move upwardly and downwardly with respect to the suction head, and at the other end is connected with the extended flow passage. A third connection member engages the second connection member with one end rotatable about a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis, and the other end disengageably connected to the extended flow passage.

Abstract: A resilient clip is provided for engaging a dog house coupling feature of a trim component. The resilient clip has a mating member for engaging a hole defined in a body panel. The resilient clip includes a triangular mating feature that is positioned relative to the coupling region. The triangular mating feature contacts at least one surface of the dog house structure to minimize rotation of the resilient clip with respect the to the dog house. This reduces rotation of the resilient clip with respect to the hole defined in the body panel.

Abstract: A cremation container convertible into a birdhouse includes an inner chamber for at least temporarily storing cremation ashes therein, an end face having a first opening in communication with the inner chamber, a peripheral side surface extending from the end face and having a second opening in communication with the inner chamber and a plug fitted in the second opening, which is removable upon conversion of the cremation container into a birdhouse. The first opening is sized for insertion and removal of the cremation ashes in the inner chamber and the second opening is sized to permit entry of a bird into the inner chamber. The container further includes mounting structure for mounting a birdhouse roof to the container.

Abstract: A casket comprises a shell having a pair of opposed side walls, a pair of opposed end walls, and an upwardly facing flange, a lid closeable upon the edge of the shell, and a cover securable to the shell and concealing the flange when the lid is open, the cover being at least semi-rigid, the cover having a one-piece right angle section and a straight section.

Abstract: A method of producing a laminated dielectric element of high quality, free of delamination. A method of producing a laminated dielectric element 1 by alternately laminating dielectric ceramic layers 12 and base metal electrode layers 13, comprising the steps of printing electrodes by applying a paste material for the base metal electrodes onto the surfaces of at least one side of the ceramic green sheets, laminating and press-adhering the ceramic green sheets to fabricate a laminate thereof, dewaxing the laminate, reducing the electrodes to form base metal electrode layers by heating the laminate while flowing an atmospheric gas and by reducing the paste material for the base metal electrodes, and sintering the laminate.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for adjusting the position of a cutting tool. In one embodiment, a boring tool includes a coupling member which is driven by a CNC boring machine, and a sliding tool holder which is slidably coupled to the coupling member. A frictional force resists sliding movement of the cutting tool holder. The frictional force is sufficient to retain the position of the cutting tool during machining operations. However, the frictional force is insufficient to resist a lateral force applied parallel to the direction of sliding, as used during adjustment of the tool position. In another embodiment, either a surface of the sliding tool holder or a surface of a frictional member are contoured with a shape that corresponds to a desired contour of a sidewall of a hole. During machining, a follower in contact with the contoured surface causes the cutting tool holder to slide laterally during machining, thus contouring the sidewall of the hole.

Abstract: A cam actuating clamp. The clamp has first and second jaws, with one of the jaws including a surface forming a fulcrum and the other one of the jaws including a projecting arm which contacts the fulcrum when the clamp is in an open position. The clamp is moved from a closed to an open position simply by the user grasping an actuating lever that is pivotally secured to one of the jaws and lifting the clamp, in which the weight of the jaws causes rotation of the jaws, relative to the actuating lever, into an open configuration. A pair of springs secured under tension between the jaws hold the jaws in the open position. The jaws are clamped over a work piece by the user moving the actuating lever into a second position. A camming surface on the actuating lever provides an over center action that enables the springs to both assist in opening the clamp as well as closing the clamp depending upon the position of the actuating lever.

Abstract: A molding die for molding glass and renewal method thereof. The molding die includes a substrate, a nickel-phosphorous alloy layer, with phosphorous content 30 wt % or less, overlying the substrate, an intermediate layer overlying the nickel-phosphorous alloy layer, and a passivation film overlying the intermediate layer.

Abstract: An arrangement for clamping a flat plate to a flat surface includes juxtaposing the plate to the flat surface. An axially-movable wedging element defining a surface fitted with wedges is fixed against motion in other than a direction of elongation, and is forced to move in the direction of elongation. The wedges are forced against a first spring beam to impart forces thereto. The forces are coupled from the first spring beam to a second spring beam by intermediary supports. The second spring beam bears against a surface of the flat plate to force the plate against the flat surface.

Abstract: A production installation comprises a loading transport means with a transport rail connecting processing machines. It also comprises workpiece grippers for supplying the processing machines with workpieces to be processed and for removing processed workpieces from the processing machines. The workpiece grippers can be pivoted about only one pivot axis between a lowered transfer position and a pivoted-up transport position. The processing machines also comprise a workpiece carriage which can be displaced transversely with respect to the direction of the transport rail for transport between the workpiece gripper and processing position on the processing machine.

Abstract: A routing machine including a plurality of worktables for supporting at least a first workpiece and a second workpiece, a hold down assembly, and a toolhead assembly for machining the first workpiece on one of the worktables and then machining the second workpiece on another of the worktables. The hold down assembly traverses the worktables with the toolhead assembly to retain the first workpiece on the one worktable and then retain the second workpiece on the other of the worktables such that the first workpiece on the one worktable can be removed and replaced with a new workpiece while the toolhead assembly machines the second workpiece on the other table. A method of machining parts with the routing machine is also disclosed.

Abstract: In one illustrative example disclosed, a method for use in making a magnetic head involves forming a thermal-assist heater for the magnetic head; forming a plurality of coil layers of a write coil using a damascene process; and simultaneously forming an electrical connection to the thermal-assist heater in the same damascene process used to form the write coil. Advantageously, fabrication steps are reduced using a parallel process that provides for relatively small dimensions and reduces the possibility of electrical shorting. The method may be alternatively used to form an electrical connection to any other suitable electrical device for the magnetic head, such as an electrical lapping guide (ELG) or other component.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an inductor fabricated above a substrate surface comprising a first set of inductors in a lower dielectric layer, a second set of inductors in an upper dielectric layer, and interconnects extending between the first and second sets of conductors to form a single continuous helical current path that turns around a central region. Since each turn of the inductor includes only one leg close to the substrate, the parasitic capacitance between the inductor and the substrate can be reduced and there is more free space in the upper and lower layers for increasing the width of the conductors and thereby reducing the series resistance of the inductor. Meanwhile, since the magnetic field generated by the inductor is substantially confined in a closed tube defined by its turns, there is less interference between the inductor and its neighboring components on the same and/or surrounding substrates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing surge arrestors, the method including stacking varistors; and forming a coating of composite material on the stack. Between these steps, also included is placing a bead of flexible, adhesive, and dielectric material on the previously formed stack in register with the various interfaces between each pair of adjacent varistors.

Abstract: A support adaptor assembly for a bearing press comprising a rectangular shaped header plate (1), a pair of adjustable support rods (4) each with an adaptor (9) on one end for providing a means of supporting an object (50) to be worked on with a bearing press either above or below the support members of the bearing press.

Abstract: A component placement device includes at least two component pick and place units, which are connected to a movable frame, and at least two component feeding devices. The component placement device is suitable for simultaneously picking-up components supplied, by means of the component feeding devices, by means of the component pick and place units. At least one component pick and place unit can be moved relative to the frame, which permits adjustment of the positions of the component pick and place units relative to one another.

Abstract: A method of making a microelectronic package includes providing a first microelectronic element having electrically conductive parts and including first and second surfaces and providing a compliant element including a releasable adhesive over the first surface of the first microelectronic element. A second microelectronic element having electrically conductive parts is abutted against the releasable adhesive so that the second microelectronic element is releasably assembled to the first microelectronic element and the electrically conductive parts of the first and second microelectronic elements are connected to one another. The releasably assembled package is tested to determine whether the package has been properly assembled. A curable liquid is then introduced between the first and second microelectronic elements of a properly assembled package and the curable liquid is cured to permanently assemble the first and second microelectronic elements together.

Abstract: A production method of a suspension board with circuit that can provide reduced number of man-hour and complicated processes for forming the ground terminal, to provide production cost reduction. An insulating base layer 4 having a base opening portion 3 is formed on a metal board 2 at a ground terminal 13 forming position, and a thin metal film 5 is formed on the metal board 2 exposed in the base opening portion 3 and on the insulating base layer 4. Then, a conductive pattern 7 is formed on the thin metal film 5. Then, an insulating cover layer 9 covering the conductive pattern 7 and having a cover opening portion 8 which correspond in position to the base opening portion 3 is formed on the insulating base layer 4. Then, a metal board opening portion 11 from which the base opening portion 3 and the insulating base layer 4 around it are exposed is formed in the metal board 2.

Abstract: A wiper arm (10), in particular for a wiper apparatus of a motor vehicle, having at least one joint part (12) and/or one fastening part (18) with a base (30) is proposed, from which at least one and preferably two lateral flanks (32) extend at an angle (A), in particular approximately plumb, wherein at least one lateral flank (32) has at least one locking cam (40) and extends outward approximately from the edge (38), remote from the base, of the lateral flank (32) and is embodied integrally with the lateral flank (32), wherein the locking cam (40) is disposed in concealed fashion in the side profile. A method for producing a wiper arm (10) of this kind is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to an automatic or self plumbing device and method for maintaining survey or data collection or reflection equipment in a vertical plumb position despite horizontal and/or vertical changes of position of the device or vehicle with the device attached thereto. The invention also provides a means for maintaining survey or data collection or reflection equipment in a vertical plumb position and at a constant height above ground or surface to be surveyed. The invention provides a means for mounting or attaching the device to a vehicle or other mobile prime mover and a means for remotely changing the position of the device mounted on the vehicle from within the vehicle for accurate, efficient, and timely collection of data while the device and vehicle are stationary or in motion.

Abstract: A device and method for arranging a display allows for the easy installation of a display in a home entertainment system. The flexibility of modern home entertainment/theater systems that include a digital display device permits many different installation options. Thus, the invention facilitates the installation of such a display by aligning a viewing screen with a projector device. Moreover, the invention allows the installation of a flat panel display, such as an LCD or PDP, at a proper viewing angle.

Abstract: An electronic measuring device is disclosed which includes a pair of wheels connected to an axle that passes through a drive gear. The drive gear is enmeshed to a second gear which, in turn, is coaxially connected to an encoder disk. The encoder disk has spaced-apart fins around its outer periphery. As the wheels turn and the encoder disk rotates, the fins and openings between the fins pass between an emitter and a receiver. The emitter and receiver are linked to a controller which calculates the distance traversed by the wheels based upon the number of fins that pass between the emitter and receiver, or with an active counting system (ACS). The controller also includes functions to establish start and stop points for a measurement and an easy means for dividing a measured distance into equal parts or segments and a means for marking the boundary points that define the segments when the measuring device is rolled back across the measured distance. The device can be used on both planar and non-planar surfaces.

Abstract: A drum dryer provided with a liquid splash and scatter preventing equipment, which enables continuous operation by preventing a scattering liquid from making dry powder in the case in which the equipment is provided above a neighborhood of a liquid concentration section. A double drum type drum dryer including a liquid splash and scatter preventing equipment is provided in a horizontal above a neighborhood of a liquid concentration section between drums and has a cooling function.

Abstract: A cage drying—compacting apparatus for wastes, includes a cylindrical shape and at least a pair of pressure plates, the cylindrical body having heating longitudinal tubes, coursed by a thermal carrier fluid, provided along the generatrixes of the cylinder and spaced from each other to realize longitudinal slots for outlet of vapour but not for outlet of material, coupled by constraint hinge elements, positioned at a given distance between centres, and the pressure plates being placed opposed each other, operating as movable basis of the body and acting as pistons. Heat sources are, provided inside the apparatus, all along its length, the sources include at least a tube coursed by thermal carrier fluid, an inlet for the material to be treated, and elements for collecting the material.

Abstract: A method of monitoring electrical component moisture exposure includes calculating a remaining floor life value for a group of electrical component containers and a first container, based on an associated first moisture sensor's exposure to moisture; removing the first container from the group; creating an association between the removed first container and a second moisture sensor; and transferring the calculated remaining floor life value from the first moisture sensor for use with the second moisture sensor.

Abstract: A sandal comprising a sole having a plurality of lace holes, grooves, and rings used for arranging at least one lace in a variety of styles when securing the sandal to the foot of the wearer. In other embodiments, the lace can be illuminated and the sole can have multiple layers.

Abstract: A shoe protection device comprises a metal or plastic member having an arcuate backwall and integrally formed sidewalls which project toward curved distal ends. The device may be formed of an elastically deflectable core part having an outer coating or overmolded layer or a removable sleeve, or the sidewalls and backwall may be formed of a single solid part. The device is adapted to be slipped over the heel of a shoe or boot to protect same while the wearer of the shoe or boot is driving a motor vehicle, for example.

Abstract: Shoes that are made to allow straps to be attached, removed, covered, or exchanged so that many different looks can be achieved. A properly equipped shoe base could be provided to which appropriate straps may be attached to the front or heel portion of the shoe base (or both). A variation is to provide a shoe base with an existing strap or straps. The strap or straps would be equipped with attachment points so that the existing straps can be covered, creating a different look for the shoe. Additionally, shoe bases could be purchased separately to allow for a more custom-fitting shoe for each foot than has been traditionally available.

Abstract: A balancing disc or appliance for use in with a shoe insole, or biomechanical device, such as an ankle or foot brace, for balancing the gait of a user is defined by a substantially circular disc or body element having a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface and the bottom surface are angularly inclined with respect to each other in an angle ranging from about 2° to about 6°. Optimally, an adhesive is deposited onto one of the surfaces for facilitating affixation of the disc to an insole or similar orthotic device. The disc is, preferably, formed from a flexible material. Since the device is substantially circular in nature, it may be rotated about a vertical axis through a 360° arc to facilitate minute adjustments in the balance of the user.

Abstract: A display arrangement 10 made of card with a pair of windows 18. A movable carrying member 30 is provided bearing two images 30 selectively viewable through the respective windows 18. The arrangement 10 is configured such that a one of the images 38 is viewable through a respective window 18 when the carrying member 30 is moved in a first direction, and the other image 30 is viewable through the other window 18 when the carrying member is moved back in the opposite direction.

Abstract: A visual display mounting assembly has first and second vertical metal plate legs and transverse stop plates extending in cantilever manner from opposite sides of the vertical legs at a position spaced above the lower ends of the leg. A visual display support means is attached to the upper ends of the legs and includes pivotal clamp frame means for clamping a display sign, poster or other visible sheet in position on each side of the display means so that the device can be positioned between rows of vending or gaming machines to provide visible access of the display to users of either row. In a second back-lit embodiment fluorescent rubes are provided between translucent plastic support panels.

Abstract: A picture frame turn button has a base plate with at least one fastener for attaching the base plate securely to a picture frame back. Pivotably mounted to the base plate is a latch plate with an arm and a tongue portion opposite of each other. The latch plate may be pivoted about base plate between an engaged state, where the picture frame back is locked closed, and a disengaged state, where the picture frame back may be removed to replace a picture sandwiched between the picture frame and picture frame back.

Abstract: A throw-lever releasable mounting system for mounting a device in quick-release relation to a support member has a mounting base having a configuration fitting opposed angulated rail surfaces and having a locator key engaging a positioning slot of the rail. Each mounting base provides for mounting and stabilization of optics mounting rings. A locking platform projects from the mounting base and defines a locking opening having a circular hard metal insert therein that defines a receptacle receiving a resilient member and providing for location of the spline/spindle shaft of a rotatable locking plate. A locking plate of a throw-lever that is rotatable between locking and unlocking positions has angulated and curved cam surfaces for forcibly engaging correspondingly angulated surfaces of the rail to achieve cam energized precision locating and locking engagement with the rail.

Abstract: A first turkey decoy and a second turkey decoy are provided. A motion imparting assembly includes a first motor. The first motor reciprocates the first turkey decoy between up and down positions. The motion imparting assembly also includes a second motor. The second motor reciprocates the first and second turkey decoy between left and right positions.

Abstract: A bird decoy is disclosed comprising a body having an upper body member, a lower body member and a pair of wings. The wing members are releasably coupled to the decoy using a flexible mounting assembly that allows the wings to move independently with, and in response to, the wind. The decoy is imprinted with the feather patterns and colorings of a selected species and sex of bird. A stand is removably coupled to the decoy so that the body may move slightly in response to the wind. Accordingly, the decoy mimics the realistic appearance and movement of a select species and sex of bird while remaining both durable and collapsible for easy transport and storage.

Abstract: A method of attaching a leader to a snelled fly by connecting a loop bearing a bead at the end of a leader to a snell loop at the end of a leader is disclosed. Generally the snell loop is first slipped over the beaded bead loop. Then, a length of the snell monofilament line is pulled through the bead loop. The snell loop and bead loop are simultaneously pulled in opposing directions forming a bead loop knot with said bead resting on one side of the knot. The process of detaching said knot is a simple reversal of the attachment process. The present method avoids the need of cutting a snell loop to replace a fishing fly and makes it possible to easily untie a loop-to-loop knot and avoid damaging a snell.

Abstract: A fishing float includes a housing having first and second portions. The housing first portion may contain a first light source and a first depth sensor. The housing second portion may contain a second light source and a second depth sensor. The housing may include a battery, orientation switch, CPU, and charging coil. An optional remote receiver unit includes a receiver and an interface. After the housing is cast, the orientation switch completes a circuit that automatically energizes the downward-facing light source (whether first or second). The corresponding downward-facing depth sensor (whether first or second) generates water depth data. The CPU may actuate the upward-facing light source to indicate the water depth data and may actuate the charging coil's transmission of this data to the receiver unit. The housing rotates when a hook is struck, flashing the downward-facing light source. Inducing current in the charging coil may recharge the battery.

Abstract: A support stand assembly for a rod and reel combination comprises a horizontal base member with a vertical support member extending from the base member. A linear support arm member is pivotally secured at a first end to the vertical support member, with the support arm member extending horizontally in a support position and pivoting upwardly to a release position. A stop member is secured adjacent a second end of the support arm member with a portion of the arm member extending beyond the stop member. An attachment member is adapted for securement to the rod of a rod and reel combination. The attachment member engages with the portion of the arm member extending beyond the stop member to support the rod and reel combination. In use, the attachment member is secured at the balance point of the rod and reel combination and engaged with the portion of the arm member extending beyond the stop member to support the rod and reel combination in a horizontal position.

Abstract: An artificial fishing lure resembling both a shrimp tail and a crab. A simulated crab body and legs are attached to the lure through perforations and are removable. The lure without the crab body and legs resembles a shrimp tail.

Abstract: A method of growing commercially valuable crops to improve crop production is disclosed. The method comprises creating a hole in the earth, preparing the hole to influence the downward growth of the root system of a tree planted therein, planting a tree in a rooting medium in the hole, growing commercially valuable crops on the tree by providing water and nutrients to the tree, and harvesting commercially valuable crops from the tree.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting spent water-based drilling mud into fertile indigenous top soil at a well site or location. The fertile indigenous top soil is produced by the steps of: admixing, at a well site, effective amounts of spent water-based drilling mud, mature compost, organic fertilizer, and top soil from the well site to provide a mixture containing spent water-based drilling mud, from about 30 to about 150 volume percent mature compost, from about 5 to 20 volume percent organic fertilizer, and from about 5 to 20 volume percent top soil from the well site wherein each of the volume percents is based on the volume of the spent water-based drilling mud present in the mixture; stirring the mixture for a period of time effective to form a substantially homogenous mixture; and drying the substantially homogenous mixture so as to provide fertile indigenous top soil possessing similar microbial and enzyme characteristics as the top soil at the well site.

Abstract: The wall panel system of the present invention includes a flexible sheet interlock to flexibly seal a joint defined by adjacent perimeter framing members and a capillary break to inhibit the entry of water into drainage or weep holes in gutters in the perimeter framing members.